Scope
Description
Undersea cables carry 99%+ of the UK's international internet traffic. These high-capacity data flows underpin the UK's digital economy, national security, and global communications. Cable landing stations (CLS) are a critical part of the UK's subsea telecommunication cable network, acting as the physical interface between undersea cables and terrestrial infrastructure. Due to their strategic importance, CLS are high-value targets for both physical and cyber threats. The Government is committed to strengthening the security of UK cable landing stations.
To support this work, we intend to commission an accredited security consultancy to produce security guidance for CLS operators. This work will be jointly overseen by DSIT, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA).
Deliverables:
Deliverable 1: Written guidance for cable landing station operators - one report setting out bespoke security guidance for CLS operators, that sets out technical protective security measures that operators should take, in a DSIT branded and editable format.
Deliverable 2: A presentation on the guidance and its recommendations.
Deliverable 3: An evidence compendium, setting out individual measures within the guidance and evidence in support of each measure, and identifying guidance or evidentiary gaps.
Total value (estimated)
- £93,000 excluding VAT
- £93,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 2 February 2026 to 2 June 2026
- 4 months, 1 day
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73110000 - Research services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
30 January 2026
Engagement process description
Contact Key person on RFI to confirm interest in ITT link when live
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
30 January 2026
Contracting authority
Department for Science, Innovation & Technology
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PVWZ-3216-PVQL
22 Whitehall
London
SW1A 2EG
United Kingdom
Email: Naomi.jones2@dsit.gov.uk
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government